WHAT IS THE MAIN STRATEGIC REASONING FOR ACQUIRERS OF A BUSINESS? Acquirers do not buy the past performance of business. They buy the future performance of the business, but use the past performance as a guide (along with other things) to establish the likelihood of...
Business Planning
Dealing with an under-performing family member
This is one of those predictable problems which takes on additional angst because it involves a family member. As a predictable problem, its’ resolution can be proceduralised by specifically mentioning this situation in a family constitution so that there are no...
Employing ‘partners’ or ‘spouses’ in the family business
Over the Christmas break l was reading an article about how relationships between married couples are likely to survive longer than relationships between partners, particularly when children are involved. If commitment is at the heart of this then l guess that it is...
Do we need to reassess our Export Markets?
Exports have always been a large part of SME activity. There has been much said about our special relationship with EU countries. However, uncertainty with the Euro means that many are becoming nervous about this business. Together with the potential for an 'IN / OUT'...
5 things to do to ensure successful transition in the family business
In many recent surveys[1] nearly half of family businesses intend to pass on their business to their children, less than 44% have put a formal succession plan in place. In this blog we summarise the 5 things to do- following up in more depth in successive future...
What can Small Busines do to help UK Balance of Payments?
The UK Balance of Payments is a sorry story. In short, we buy much more stuff from overseas than we sell overseas, and have done for many years. Some items, such as raw materials, and highly specific components we have little choice other than to import. But other...
Achieve a good price when you sell your business
Its a sad fact that only 8% of small businesses are sold for a decent price. This is not good news if you are relying on selling your business for your pension, or indeed for any other purpose. However, many more businesses would be saleable for fair value if the...
Continual Improvement
As a small business owner wanting to grow your business, you will be looking at ways to improve your business to generate more profit and cash, to free up working capital, and to make more effective use of your own time. While there may be one-shot improvements you...
Surprising results from SME survey
In a recent survey carried out by SGBA (Southern Group Business Advisors) amongst SMEs in the South of England some surprising information was gleaned. Firstly over 65% were optimistic about their business and its potential to grow with 58% of respondents saying that...